Don’t Take the Bait – The $750 Cash Rewards Program is a Scam
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
The lure of earning $750 in cash just for downloading apps seems like easy money for little effort. But the “$750 To Your Cash Account” payout promises are an elaborate facade designed to steal your personal information and expose you to financial fraud. This in-depth guide will uncover everything you need to know about recognizing and avoiding this scam.
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Scam Overview
This scam operates through shady websites promoting a rewards program that promises to deposit $750 cash into your preferred payment account. To earn the supposed rewards, you simply have to complete activities like:
Downloading and signing up for apps
Starting free trials of products/services
Shopping specific online deals
Completing survey questions
The sites request access to payment accounts like PayPal, Cash App, or a linked bank account in order to deposit your $750 reward.
But it’s merely a scheme to harvest people’s personal data and payment details for identity theft and financial fraud. No matter how many activities you complete, you won’t receive any real cash payouts.
This bait seduces victims with the promise of easy money for minimal effort. However, it’s just a front to steal personal information and expose people to unwanted charges, data selling, device malware, and endless spam.
How Scammers Promote the Rewards Offer
Scammers promote these fake cash rewards programs through:
Search ads on Google, Bing, Yahoo and other engines.
Social media ads on Facebook, Instagram, etc.
Spam emails sent en masse using purchased email lists.
Targeting search terms like “get paid apps” or “earn free cash”.
Many scam sites purchase ads on legitimate websites to appear credible. They tout the chance to earn $750 cash just for app downloads or other simple activities.
The pages exhibit scam red flags like no verifiable business details, pressure tactics, and fine print revealing that no one actually receives the advertised rewards. But victims can miss the signs in the excitement of registering for $750 in “free” money.
How the Scam Works
From bait to hook to threat, here’s an in-depth look at how this scam manipulates victims:
Step 1: Bait – Lucrative $750 Cash Offer
Scammers lure in victims with promises of earning $750 cash for activities like:
Downloading and signing up for mobile apps
Starting free trials for products or services
Shopping specific online deals and offers
Completing surveys or questionnaire
The reward money can supposedly be deposited directly into your preferred account like PayPal, Cash App, or linked bank account.
This “easy money” bait is designed to entice excitement over little effort cash prizes. But skeptical visitors may still hesitate to hand over personal information to sketchy sites.
Step 2: Hook – Requests for Personal Information
Clicking anywhere on one of these scam sites brings visitors to a registration form requesting detailed personal information including:
Full name
Physical address
Email address
Phone number
Birthdate
Cash App, PayPal, or bank account details
This data enables scammers to steal identities, commit financial fraud, and enable money laundering. But the scam sites claim it’s needed to “verify eligibility” and deposit any reward money you earn.
The more details collected, the more potential damage scammers can inflict through identity theft and account breaches. But victims are misled into believing their information stays safe.
Step 3: High Pressure Registration Tactics
Scam sites add urgency to get visitors handing over personal details quickly before second guessing. Tactics include:
Emphasizing limited spots available in the rewards program
Countdown timers rushing the registration process
Claiming sign ups are about to close soon
This manufactured urgency triggers emotional responses that override critical thinking. Visitors act fast to register out of fear of missing out on “easy money”.
No legitimate business needs to pressure people into sharing personal data using such manipulative tactics. But scammers know it works to prevent closer scrutiny.
Step 4: Sign Ups for Downloads, Trials, Shopping
After registering with personal details, users have to complete “offers” to earn their supposed $750 cash reward. Typical activities include:
Downloading and signing up for mobile apps
Starting free trials for products or subscription services
Shopping specific online deals, products, or offers
Completing surveys, questionnaires, or games
Many offers seem safe initially since they’re free to join or try. But they ultimately expose users to identity theft, hidden fees, endless spam, and device malware.
Step 5: No $750 Cash Payout Despite Completing Offers
Here is the sad truth at the heart of this scam: No one ever receives the advertised $750 cash payouts, no matter how many offers they complete.
The cash reward promises are entirely fabricated to drive conversions. Scammers make money from:
Selling harvested user data
Commission fees from app downloads, trials, purchases
Ongoing subscription fees after free trial periods end
But the victims who provide details and complete dubious offers get zero deposits into their Cash App, PayPal, or bank accounts.
Step 6: Ongoing Risks Beyond Initial Charges
Even if avoiding initial hidden fees, victims must deal with endless headaches like:
Stolen identities used to open unauthorized accounts
Hacked email, financial, and shopping accounts
Device malware from downloaded apps and files
Non-stop spam calls, emails, and texts
And fresh personal info makes victims vulnerable to endless follow-up scam attempts too.
The scammers disappear once they have victims’ details and sign-ups. Users are left with money lost, personal data exposed, and privacy compromised through no fault of their own.
What to do if You’ve Fallen Victim to This Scam
If you already provided your information or completed dubious offers, take the following steps immediately:
Step 1: Scan All Devices for Malware
Run a Malwarebytes scan to detect any dangerous apps or files downloaded from scam offer links. Uninstall anything suspicious to remove lurking malware or spyware.
Step 2: Change All Account Passwords
Reset all passwords for online accounts like email, financial, social media, shopping sites, etc. Use unique complex passwords for each account. Turn on two factor authentication for an extra security layer when possible.
Step 3: Contact Banks and Payment Companies
Notify your bank, credit card providers, Cash App, and PayPal about potential fraudulent activity. Discuss options to freeze or monitor accounts. Report any unrecognized charges or password reset requests.
Step 4: Cancel Unwanted Ongoing Subscriptions
Review all services signed up for via scam offer links. Call each company to cancel unwanted subscriptions to prevent recurring hidden charges.
Step 5: Ignore Follow Up Scam Calls or Emails
Disregard any calls or emails about issues with your $750 cash reward. These are likely scammers attempting additional tricks to steal more of your personal information.
Step 6: Report Scam Sites and Accounts
Submit reports about scam sites, pages, profiles, or accounts to the FTC, social networks, site registrars, etc. This helps get scam content removed and shut down faster.
Staying vigilant after falling victim reduces ongoing risks of identity theft and fraudulent account activity. But preventing the initial trap is the best way to protect your information, privacy, devices, and money.
How to Spot This Scam
Learning the common traits of this scam helps avoid the trap in the first place:
⚠️ Red Flag – Outlandish $750 Cash Offer
Rational scrutiny should raise doubts about sites paying $750 just for simple app downloads. Legitimate rewards require more substantial actions.
⚠️ Red Flag – Requests for Personal Information Upfront
Giving away sensitive personal and payment data should only come after fully verifying a site. Scammers demand details early before you can evaluate risks.
⚠️ Red Flag – Pressure Tactics and Manufactured Urgency
No legitimate business needs to use countdown timers, limited spots, or other tricks to pressure you into sharing personal information quickly.
⚠️ Red Flag – Lack of Reviews, Testimonials, or Contact Information
Secure sites provide ways to contact customer service and show authentic user experiences. Scam sites try to avoid scrutiny.
⚠️ Red Flag – No One Gets Paid despite Completing Offers
Proof that no real rewards are paid out exposes the cash promises as complete fabrications to drive conversions.
⚠️ Red Flag – Hidden Terms Reveal No Payouts
Hard-to-find fine print often clarifies that almost no one ever receives advertised reward amounts (or anything at all).
Stay vigilant for these signs of a scam before providing information or signing up for questionable offers through unfamiliar sites. Consult consumer protection resources like the FTC or BBB if an offer raises any doubts.
Is Your Device Infected? Check for Malware
If your device is running slowly or acting suspicious, it may be infected with malware. Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free is a great option for scanning your device and detecting potential malware or viruses. The free version can efficiently check for and remove many common infections.
Malwarebytes can run on Windows, Mac, and Android devices. Depending on which operating system is installed on the device you’re trying to run a Malwarebytes scan, please click on the tab below and follow the displayed steps.
Malwarebytes For WindowsMalwarebytes For MacMalwarebytes For Android
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Windows to remove malware
Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.
Download Malwarebytes for Windows
You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.
After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.
You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.
Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.
When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.
On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.
Enable “Rootkit scanning”.
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.
In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.
Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.
Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.
To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Quarantine detected malware
Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.
Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.
Restart your computer.
When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.
Your computer should now be free of trojans, adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Scan your computer with Malwarebytes for Mac to remove malware
Malwarebytes for Mac is an on-demand scanner that can destroy many types of malware that other software tends to miss without costing you absolutely anything. When it comes to cleaning up an infected device, Malwarebytes has always been free, and we recommend it as an essential tool in the fight against malware.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac.
You can download Malwarebytes for Mac by clicking the link below.
When Malwarebytes has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install Malwarebytes on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
Follow the on-screen prompts to install Malwarebytes.
When the Malwarebytes installation begins, you will see the Malwarebytes for Mac Installer which will guide you through the installation process. Click “Continue“, then keep following the prompts to continue with the installation process.
When your Malwarebytes installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click the “Get started” button.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”.
The Malwarebytes Welcome screen will first ask you what type of computer are you installing this program, click either Personal Computer or Work Computer.
Click on “Scan”.
To scan your computer with Malwarebytes, click on the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes for Mac will automatically update the antivirus database and start scanning your computer for malware.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will scan your computer for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Quarantine”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes has detected. To remove the malware that Malwarebytes has found, click on the “Quarantine” button.
Restart computer.
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your computer.
Your Mac should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Scan your phone with Malwarebytes for Android to remove malware
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
Your phone should now be free of adware, browser hijackers, and other malware.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
This scam operates through websites promoting a rewards program that promises to pay you $750 cash for completing simple activities like downloading apps or taking surveys. But it’s a scheme to steal your personal data.
How do scammers promote the fake rewards offers?
Through search ads, social media ads, affiliate networks, spam emails, and targeted search terms like “get paid apps” or “free money.” Scam sites often mimic real companies.
What personal details do the scam sites request?
They ask for full name, physical address, email, phone number, birthdate, Cash App/PayPal account details – anything needed to steal your identity.
What kinds of activities do you have to complete?
Downloading apps, signing up for subscriptions, starting trials, shopping deals, taking surveys. This exposes you to identity theft, hidden fees, malware, and spam.
Do you actually receive any $750 cash payments?
No, the $750 rewards are completely fabricated. No matter how many activities you complete, you will never receive any cash deposits into your payment accounts.
What risks are you exposed to by providing your information?
What should you do if you already entered your information on a scam site?
Scan devices for malware, change all account passwords, contact banks/payment firms
Cancel any unwanted subscriptions
Ignore follow up scam calls/emails
Report site to FTC, social networks, registrars, etc.
How can you avoid this scam in the first place?
Avoid unfamiliar sites making too good to be true offers. Never provide personal/payment details without thoroughly verifying site legitimacy first.
The Bottom Line
The promise of earning $750 cash just for downloading apps or completing simple online activities is a fabricated scam designed to harvest your personal data. No matter how many dubious offers you complete, you won’t receive any deposit into your Cash App, PayPal or bank account.
These scams bait unsuspecting victims who miss the warning signs in excitement over easy money promises. But handing over information and completing sketchy offers only leads to identity theft, financial fraud, hidden fees, malware infections, and non-stop spam.
Protect yourself by learning to recognize red flags indicating a scam attempt:
Extremely high rewards for very little effort
Requests for extensive personal data before verification
Pressure tactics urging fast action
Lack of reviews, testimonials, contact channels
Completing all requirements still pays nothing
A healthy skepticism of unfamiliar sites and offers goes a long way. If it seems too good to be true, it always is. Don’t let desire for easy cash blind you into willingly giving away personal data and payment information. Be vigilant to keep your identity and money safe from increasingly sophisticated scams.
How to Stay Safe Online
Here are 10 basic security tips to help you avoid malware and protect your device:
Use a good antivirus and keep it up-to-date.
It's essential to use a good quality antivirus and keep it up-to-date to stay ahead of the latest cyber threats. We are huge fans of Malwarebytes Premium and use it on all of our devices, including Windows and Mac computers as well as our mobile devices. Malwarebytes sits beside your traditional antivirus, filling in any gaps in its defenses, and providing extra protection against sneakier security threats.
Keep software and operating systems up-to-date.
Keep your operating system and apps up to date. Whenever an update is released for your device, download and install it right away. These updates often include security fixes, vulnerability patches, and other necessary maintenance.
Be careful when installing programs and apps.
Pay close attention to installation screens and license agreements when installing software. Custom or advanced installation options will often disclose any third-party software that is also being installed. Take great care in every stage of the process and make sure you know what it is you're agreeing to before you click "Next."
Install an ad blocker.
Use a browser-based content blocker, like AdGuard. Content blockers help stop malicious ads, Trojans, phishing, and other undesirable content that an antivirus product alone may not stop.
Be careful what you download.
A top goal of cybercriminals is to trick you into downloading malware—programs or apps that carry malware or try to steal information. This malware can be disguised as an app: anything from a popular game to something that checks traffic or the weather.
Be alert for people trying to trick you.
Whether it's your email, phone, messenger, or other applications, always be alert and on guard for someone trying to trick you into clicking on links or replying to messages. Remember that it's easy to spoof phone numbers, so a familiar name or number doesn't make messages more trustworthy.
Back up your data.
Back up your data frequently and check that your backup data can be restored. You can do this manually on an external HDD/USB stick, or automatically using backup software. This is also the best way to counter ransomware. Never connect the backup drive to a computer if you suspect that the computer is infected with malware.
Choose strong passwords.
Use strong and unique passwords for each of your accounts. Avoid using personal information or easily guessable words in your passwords. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts whenever possible.
Be careful where you click.
Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. These could potentially contain malware or phishing scams.
Don't use pirated software.
Avoid using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file-sharing programs, keygens, cracks, and other pirated software that can often compromise your data, privacy, or both.
To avoid potential dangers on the internet, it's important to follow these 10 basic safety rules. By doing so, you can protect yourself from many of the unpleasant surprises that can arise when using the web.
Meet Thomas Orsolya
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
